Standardizing Knowledge Won’t Lead to Creativity or Innovation

February 7, 2013 By Shane Vander Hart

I just saw an excellent video that I wanted to share with you. It features Christopher Tienken who is an assistant professor of education administration at Seton Hall University. He speaks out against the current school reform movement’s focus on standardizing knowledge and creating a “one-size-fits-all” model of education. He gives a clear call for us to return to local control. Tienken tears down much of the philosophy behind why the Common Core State Standards were written.

Money quote for me at least was this, “It is utterly anti-intellectual to think that standardizing knowledge is going to lead to creativity and innovation. It’s not logical.” He doesn’t pull any punches.

He makes, I believe, a compelling case and one that should be shared with your state legislators, especially if you live in a state that has adopted the Common Core State Standards. So please do share this video with them.

Shane Vander Hart is the founder and editor-in-chief of Caffeinated Thoughts. He is also the President of 4:15 Communications, LLC, a social media & communications consulting/management firm. Prior to this Shane spent 20 years in youth ministry serving in church, parachurch, and school settings. He has also served as an interim pastor and is a sought after speaker and pulpit fill-in. Shane has been married to his wife Cheryl since 1993 and they have three kids. Shane and his family reside near Des Moines, IA.

About Shane Vander Hart

Shane Vander Hart is the founder and editor-in-chief of Caffeinated Thoughts. He is also the President of 4:15 Communications, LLC, a social media & communications consulting/management firm. Prior to this Shane spent 20 years in youth ministry serving in church, parachurch, and school settings. He has also served as an interim pastor and is a sought after speaker and pulpit fill-in. Shane has been married to his wife Cheryl since 1993 and they have three kids. Shane and his family reside near Des Moines, IA.